The geek in me thought this was so cool.

Peter Mayhew, the actor who brought Chewbacca to life in the Star Wars films, will soon become a United States citizen. I always find it heart warming when long time residents decide to become American citizens. It's not a business decision or a casual affair. Mr. Mayhew bought a new suit for the swearing in ceremony. It's an event!

I remember watching Mikhail Baryshnikov take the oath of citizenship. He defected from Russia in 1974. On July 3, 1986 in a televised Independence Day celebration, he took the oath along with hundreds of other immigrants. Being a celebrated dancer, the camera focused on him. It was an intense emotional moment, played out in his expressions.

It makes me wonder who loves this country more; those of us who are born here and often take all the privileges for granted? Or those who choose to change their status and BECOME Americans?